SICILY. Syracuse. Deinomenid Tyranny, 485-466 B.C. AR Tetradrachm (17.27 gms), struck under Gelon I, ca. 485-480 B.C. NGC Ch VF★, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 5/5. Fine Style.

HGC-2, 1304; Boehringer-41 (V26/R25); SNG ANS-7-8 (same obv. die); Weber-1550 (same dies). Obverse: Charioteer, holding kentron and reins, driving quadriga right; above, crowning Nike flying right; Reverse: Diademed head of Arethousa right; four dolphins around. Very well centered and presenting an alluring, deep cabinet tone, this delightfully archaic specimen presents a level of quality that is SCARCELY encountered for the earlier series. Wholly deserving of its star designation, as some hints of brilliance radiate when cradled back and forth in one's hand.

From the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection.